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July/August 2018 Annals of Family Medicine media tip sheet

Research in Annals of Family Medicine reveals a strong association between alcohol consumption and nocturnal leg cramps, particularly among patients over 60 years old. Additionally, partners of individuals with newly diagnosed diabetes exhibit higher rates of behavioral change compared to those without the disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 10, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Flexible organic electronics mimic biological mechanosensory nerves

Researchers created artificial mechanosensory nerves using flexible organic devices to emulate biological sensory afferent nerves, controlling a disabled insect leg and distinguishing Braille characters. The device combines mechanoreceptors, neurons, and synapses to process pressure information and actuate muscles.

SourceSeoul National University·JournalScience·DateMay 31, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

'Second brain' neurons keep colon moving

A study published in JNeurosci reveals a new pattern of neuronal activity in the gastrointestinal tract that generates rhythmic electrical activity in smooth muscle. This finding identifies a previously unknown mechanism for colon movement, suggesting an early feature preserved through nervous system evolution.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 29, 2018

Engineers design color-changing compression bandage

A new compression bandage developed by MIT engineers features pressure-sensing photonic fibers that change color in response to pressure. This allows caregivers to gauge the optimal pressure and adjust the bandage accordingly.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateMay 29, 2018

Scientists train spider to jump on demand to discover secrets of animal movement

Researchers trained a 'Regal Jumping Spider' to jump different distances and heights using 3D CT scanning and high-speed cameras. The study reveals the spider uses different jumping strategies depending on the challenge, with internal hydraulic pressure playing a key role in its extraordinary jumping performance.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 8, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Brain structure linked to symptoms of restless legs syndrome

A study found structural changes in the brain's sensory system, which processes sensations and movement, in people with restless legs syndrome. These changes may be related to symptoms such as uncomfortable sensations and an irresistible urge to move the legs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 25, 2018

Three-fold higher risk of cancer after acute thrombosis in the leg

A study published in Circulation found that patients with acute thrombosis in the leg are at a three-fold higher risk of developing cancer during the first six months after the blood clot. The risk is highest for smoking-related forms of cancer, such as lung and pancreatic cancer.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCirculation·DateApr 16, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Spiders and scorpions have co-opted leg genes to build their heads

Researchers Emily Setton and Prashant Sharma discovered that spiders and scorpions co-opted leg genes to build their heads. This genetic adaptation allows scientists to trace the evolutionary history of these animals, revealing a complex web of genetic mechanisms underlying their diversity.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

Tokyo Tech's six-legged robots get closer to nature

The study proposes a biologically-inspired controller that uses non-linear oscillators to generate diverse gaits and postures. The system can adapt to different walking speeds and is controlled by high-level parameters, enabling real-time adjustments using brain-computer interfaces.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateMar 9, 2018

How the brain tells our limbs apart

A Salk Institute study has identified distinct molecular profiles in V2a neurons that control arm and leg movements, shedding light on neural regulation of motor control. The findings could lead to personalized stem-cell-based treatments for repairing spinal cord injuries.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 21, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Researchers reveal new insights into how your brain keeps its balance

An interdisciplinary team of scientists discovered that ATM and ATR regulate each other's levels in the brain to maintain a balance between excitation and inhibition. Regular brain activity also changes the levels of these proteins, creating a dynamic 'conversation' that helps keep the appropriate E/I balance.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Insights on fast cockroaches can help teach robots to walk

Researchers studied fast cockroach locomotion to develop more energy-efficient robot movement. At high speeds, cockroaches adapt their gait by reducing leg coordination, allowing for stable movement on slippery surfaces. This discovery could help robots achieve better endurance and cross-country mobility.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateDec 8, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Wine 'legs' and minibot motors (video)

Researchers Lidong Zhang and colleagues developed a new method for propelling tiny motors using the Marangoni effect, eliminating expensive catalysts. The droplets rotate rapidly on water, propelled hundreds of centimeters without pollution, with added electromagnetic generator converting kinetic energy to electrical energy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateNov 15, 2017

Novel Nano-CT device creates high-resolution 3D-X-rays of tiny velvet worm legs

The TUM Nano-CT system produces images with resolutions up to 100 nanometers, allowing investigation of individual muscle strands in velvet worm legs. The device has potential applications in biomedical research and medicine, enabling non-destructive examination of tissue samples and clarification of tumor malignancy.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 6, 2017

Horses can read our body language even when they don't know us

A study published in Animal Cognition found that horses prefer to approach humans with submissive body postures over dominant ones. This preference is thought to be an instinctual understanding of larger vs. smaller postures, as seen in evolutionary communication.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateNov 3, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Virtual reality reduces phantom pain in paraplegics

Researchers at EPFL used virtual reality to reduce phantom pain in paraplegics by creating an illusion of tactile stimulation on the legs. The study, published in Neurology, found that subjects who experienced this illusion reported decreased pain levels.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNeurology·DateOct 30, 2017

Individual with complete spinal cord injury regains voluntary motor function

A research participant regained voluntary motor function, including standing and moving without stimulation, six years after a complete spinal cord injury. The recovery was achieved through extended activity-based training with epidural stimulation, challenging previous beliefs that severe injuries would not improve over time.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 26, 2017

Water striders illustrate evolutionary processes

Researchers have discovered two new genes responsible for the formation of fan-like structures on the legs of a specific water strider species. The findings suggest that genetic mutations can lead to the emergence of new structures that affect an organism's lifestyle and access to ecological niches.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateOct 19, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

A mosquito's secret weapon: a light touch and strong wings

Researchers found mosquitoes make stealthy takeoffs with barely a push-off, instead relying on strong wing beats for lift. They can carry blood meals without issue, using sweeping wing movements to generate extra lift.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 18, 2017

How well-fed mosquitoes outwit victims at take-off

Researchers discover that well-fed mosquitoes use a softer take-off technique to evade detection, utilizing their long legs and high wingbeat frequency. This strategy allows them to minimize tactile detection without compromising on take-off speed.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 18, 2017

Study identifies genetic clues to spinal stenosis

A new study linked certain genetic changes to an increased risk of developing lumbar spinal stenosis. The research, involving 469 individuals, provides insights into the potential causes and may help identify patients at risk early.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateOct 13, 2017

Restless legs syndrome study identifies 13 new genetic risk variants

Researchers have identified 13 new genetic risk variants for restless legs syndrome, a condition affecting up to one in ten people of European ancestry. The findings suggest that the condition may be related to neurodevelopmental disorders and offer clues for developing new treatments, including drugs like thalidomide.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateOct 13, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Perfect mannequins a turnoff for some consumers

A UBC study found that consumers with low self-esteem are more likely to dislike clothing on mannequins, while those with higher self-esteem see no issue. The effect was not seen in less aesthetically pleasing mannequin displays.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 30, 2017

Designing custom robots in a matter of minutes

Researchers at MIT CSAIL developed an interactive design system called Interactive Robogami that allows users to design and 3D-print custom robots in minutes. The system uses simulations, algorithms, and interactive feedback to ensure feasible designs and guarantee stability and speed.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·JournalThe International Journal of Robotics Research·DateAug 22, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

3-D-printed, soft, four legged robot can walk on sand and stone

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a soft, four-legged robot that can walk on rough surfaces like sand and pebbles. The breakthrough was made possible by combining soft and rigid materials using 3D printing, enabling complex shapes for the robot's legs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMay 16, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Are your muscles genetically prepared to run a marathon?

Researchers found that athletes with favorable genetic profiles have lower levels of muscle damage and fatigue during marathons. The study's findings open the door for personalized training based on an individual's genetic makeup.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 6, 2017

New study sheds light on 'lung sparing effect'

A new study suggests that severe acute malnutrition in early childhood may prioritize lung development over other less vital growth, resulting in shorter leg lengths and a higher risk of being severely short for their age. The findings have significant implications for the long-term health of children affected by malnutrition.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateApr 5, 2017

Hair spacing keeps honeybees clean during pollination

Researchers at Georgia Tech studied the honeybee cleaning process and found that hair spacing is essential for removing up to 15,000 particles in three minutes. The unique spacing allows the forelegs to collect as much pollen as possible with each swipe.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMar 28, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Many adults have insufficient knowledge about heart failure

A German survey found that overall awareness of heart failure has not increased over the past decade, with many adults lacking knowledge on its causes, presentation, prognosis, and treatment. The study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about heart failure to improve early recognition and treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalESC Heart Failure·DateMar 22, 2017

Eyes hold clues to future narrowing of leg vessels

Researchers found that tiny blood vessels in the eye may predict a higher risk of later narrowing in large blood vessels in the legs. Study participants with retinal abnormalities had a 2.16 times greater risk of developing peripheral artery disease (PAD) and a 3.41 times greater risk of critical limb ischemia (CLI).

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 8, 2017

How can we predict whose MS will worsen?

A preliminary study found that individuals with relapsing-remitting MS who experience fatigue and limited leg function are at higher risk of progressing to secondary progressive MS. The study suggests that tailored treatments may be more effective for these patients, providing valuable insights into predicting MS progression.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateMar 1, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Six-legged robots faster than nature-inspired gait

Researchers found a faster way for six-legged robots to move on flat ground without adhesive pads, dubbed the 'bipod' gait. This locomotor strategy is more efficient than traditional tripod gait used by insects.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 17, 2017

Fossils found reveal unseen 'footprint' maker

Researchers discovered fossils of a previously unknown trilobite species that left distinctive fossil footprints around the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. The discovery reveals unique leg structures and digestive systems, providing insights into trilobite behavior and biology.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

Jumping water striders know how to avoid breaking of the water surface

Researchers discovered that jumping water striders adjust their leg movements to prevent the water surface from breaking, allowing them to achieve maximum jump speeds. By studying the biomechanics of these near-vertical jumps, scientists built a mathematical model to explain the behavior and verified its predictions with actual data.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2016

Mummified remains identified as Egyptian Queen Nefertari

Researchers use advanced techniques to confirm the ancient queen's identity, shedding new light on Egyptian mummification practices. The team's findings support the idea that the mummified legs belong to Queen Nefertari, a favorite wife of Pharaoh Ramses II.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 5, 2016

Primates regain control of paralyzed limb

A primate regained control of its paralyzed leg using a neuroprosthetic system that decodes brain activity associated with walking movements and relays this information to the spinal cord. The system was tested in collaboration with an international network of collaborators, including Medtronic and the University of Bordeaux.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Researchers restore leg movement in primates using wireless neural interface

A team of scientists has restored intentional walking movement to a temporarily paralyzed leg in rhesus macaques using a wireless brain-spinal interface. The system uses signals recorded from the motor cortex of the brain to trigger coordinated electrical stimulation of nerves in the spine responsible for locomotion.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2016

Stimulating the brain makes exercising the legs feel easier

A study led by the University of Kent found that transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) delayed leg muscle exhaustion by 15% during exhaustive leg exercise. Participants felt less effort during exercise, but no effect was observed on neuromuscular response.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalNeuroscience·DateNov 1, 2016

Fusion reactor designs with 'long legs' show promise

Researchers found that long-leg plasma exhaust channels can handle high power densities, exceeding material limits. The configuration promotes the build-up of high gas pressures in the legs, enabling a stable radiating layer to fully accommodate plasma heat exhaust.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 27, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Shadows reveal how insects walk on water (video)

Researchers study water strider legs to understand how they can walk on water without displacing it, shedding light on a long-standing scientific mystery. By analyzing the shadows cast by their legs, scientists have confirmed key parameters that allow them to perform this remarkable feat.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateOct 19, 2016

'Shadow method' reveals locomotion secrets of water striders

Researchers in China developed a 'shadow method' to measure forces acting on water strider legs, revealing key principles behind their locomotion. The technique could help design advanced biomimetic robots and measure forces at the single molecular level.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 17, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.